Mar. 29, 2018 -- Two sites in Naqu and Ngari, Tibet Autonomous Region, have been officially recognized as World Dark Sky Protected Areas by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

The night sky is a natural resource. “Due to a sparse population, low levels of light pollution and high altitude, Tibet boasts rich night sky resources to build night sky preserves,” said Zhou Jinfeng, secretary-general of China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation.

The protected areas will control light pollution and develop cultural industries themed on night sky protection, popularization of science and tourism, with the aim of raising the public awareness of protecting night skies.

By: Shi Dongdong